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High blood pressure symptoms and diagnosis

Most often, people with high blood pressure have no symptoms. This is why high blood pressure is often called a "silent killer." Complications related to untreated hypertension can have serious effects such as stroke and heart attack, and could possibly lead to death.

Headaches, dizziness, and nosebleeds can sometimes be reported if the blood pressure is very high, but are very rare symptoms.

When measuring blood pressure, it is recommended that at least 2 readings separated by one minute be taken. If a raised blood pressure reading is discovered at a check-up, your doctor will usually ask for you to come back for a follow-up in a month to confirm whether you should take medication to treat it. It is very important to keep these follow-up appointments.

If you have a systolic pressure equal to or above 140 mm Hg or a diastolic pressure equal to or above 90 mm Hg as measured by a doctor (or higher than 135/85 when measured at home) on a number of consecutive readings, you have high blood pressure. Normal blood pressure is between 120 mm Hg and 129 mm Hg for systolic blood pressure and between 80 mm Hg and 84 mm Hg for diastolic blood pressure. If you have diabetes, high blood pressure is anything at or above 130/80 mm Hg.

The contents of this site are for informational purposes only and are meant to be discussed with your physician or other qualified health care professional before being acted on. Never disregard any advice given to you by your doctor or other qualified health care professional. Always seek the advice of a physician or other licensed health care professional regarding any questions you have about your medical condition(s) and treatment(s). This site is not a substitute for medical advice.